Mirna Valerio’s Advice to Her Younger Self: Practice Saying “No”
Ultrarunner and author Mirna Valerio recalls patterns of overstriving in her young self that she still carries today.
Author
Mirna Valerio
My name is Mirna Valerio, aka @TheMirnavator. I am a native of Brooklyn and current resident of northeast Georgia. I’m a Spanish teacher, diversity educator, cross-country coach, marathoner, ultrarunner and blogger, writing about all things running and living life to its fullest while being a larger gal on my blog, Fatgirlrunning. I have a son who is 12 and a hubby who travels a lot, mostly in West Africa. I try to live by example. We only have one body and one life. We must love our bodies and ultimately our entire selves in order to be whole people, in order to live our lives to the fullest. The road to self-acceptance and self-love is a long one, and one that requires a commitment to loving yourself (and spreading that love to others) no matter how you perceive yourself that moment, day, or year. Get out there and be. And run all the roads and trails.
My Stories
13 Tips for Getting Outside Even On Really Cold Days
Yes, it's freezing. But getting out of the house and into the cold could be good for you.
Book Excerpt: The Anxious, Excited Thoughts Of An Ultrarunner
Mirna "The Mirnavator" Valerio shares an excerpt from her first book.
Mirna Valerio On Why Nature Remains A Huge Influence On Her Life
Our September cover runner, Mirna Valerio, shares how nature inspires every aspect of her life.
Book Excerpt: Mirna’s Grand Thoughts Ahead Of Javelina 100K
A Beautiful Work In Progress comes out 10/1!
“Are You The Fat Lady Who Works Here?”
Our September 2017 cover runner Mirna Valerio explains what it's like to be in the public eye, when any move you make can inspire someone.
How To Overcome Your Own Worst Case Scenarios
Worst case scenarios are possible to beat.
How To Be The Change You Want To See In Yourself
Mirna Valerio, future author of her own book, shares that there's no secret to getting brave. You just do it.
I’m So Scared For The 120-Mile TransRockies Run—But Game On Anyway!
Mirna Valerio shares her recent experience with the The North Face Endurance Challenge, part of her training for the 2017 TransRockies Run.
Running Start Helps Women In Need Of A Positive Change
Running Start, a program launched by Nicole DeBoom, is a program geared toward helping women that want to change their lives for the better.
I’m a Serious Runner—Are You?
Fat Girl Running's Mirna Valerio explains why she—and everyone that runs—deserves to consider themselves "serious runners."
Mirna Has The Best Response For One Hater Calling Her Fat And A Fake
Mirna Valerio has the most beautiful response to one hater who said some terrible things to her.
An Athena Runner Breaks Down Her Search For Apparel That Fits
Though still not ideal, there have been some positive changes made in the way of clothes for larger athletes. Some questions still remain.
Is A Love For Running Ruining My Marriage?
One runner reflects on her marriage and how running has turned out to be the perfect metaphor of the work marriage requires.
Choosing The Right Breakfast To Fuel Your Long Run
Each long run distance requires a certain amount of fuel and what you eat for breakfast should vary because of that fact.
Here’s What To Consider When Dressing For Long Runs
The right gear can make or break a long run. Here is a guide to dressing yourself from head to toe so you are prepared for anything.
How I’m Confronting My Fear Of Running Alone In The Woods
Running solo—no matter the location—can sometimes be scary. Here is how one trail runner is conquering her fear and preparing for anything.
What Training Is Like For One Runner With Asthma
After fires broke out in her region, poor air quality led to a diagnosis of asthma for Fat Girl Running. Here's how it changed her training.
Why Health And Weight Is More Complicated Than BMI
We need to change the way we think about health and weight and realize that the two aren't always as connected as we thought.
5 Beginner-Friendly Ultramarathons On The East Coast
Think you're ready to move past the marathon? Then ultras are for you and these five are a great place to move up your mileage.